Bodicote Care Home Placed in Special Measures Over Unsafe Conditions

Fairholme House, a care home in Bodicote near Banbury serving elderly residents including those with dementia, has been placed into special measures by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) after inspections revealed serious failings in care quality and safety. Inspectors found breaches in legal regulations regarding person-centred care, consent, safe treatment, and governance, highlighting poor leadership that led to unsafe conditions and inadequate staff training and supervision. Residents experienced a lack of dignity and autonomy, with reports of incomplete care records, insufficient risk management, restricted choices in daily activities, and distress caused by delays and poor communication during mealtimes. Hazardous areas and equipment were found unsecured, and basic standards such as involvement in care planning and provision of meaningful activities were lacking. The home has since committed to strengthening leadership oversight, reviewing care plans, enhancing training, and working closely with local authorities to improve care quality. The CQC will continue monitoring the home closely to ensure rapid and widespread improvements are made to protect residents' safety and wellbeing.